Empire Vein & Vascular Specialists Blog

Stay informed with the latest news from our Board Certified Doctors.

A pregnant woman sitting and touching her leg that has varicose veins

Varicose Veins During Pregnancy: What to Know

Varicose veins are common during pregnancy because of increased pressure on the circulatory system and poor blood flow. Unlike other types of vein conditions, varicose veins during pregnancy tend to resolve on their own within a few weeks to months after delivery.  If you are currently struggling with varicose veins or want to know how […]

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A woman putting compression socks on her legs

How Long Should You Wear Compression Socks?

Compression socks are used in compression therapy, a non-invasive treatment that helps manage the symptoms of poor blood circulation in the legs. Compression therapy uses snug-fitting socks or stockings to put pressure on the legs to improve blood flow. This is often a recommended first step in managing uncomfortable symptoms such as swelling, heaviness, or […]

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A woman with varicose veins holding her thigh

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and even painful. They can make it harder to sit or stand for prolonged periods, travel, or engage in certain activities that exacerbate them. But what is the cause of varicose veins?  Many factors are involved, and if you’re struggling with them, you’re not alone. Understanding what causes varicose […]

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Woman with varicose veins holding her leg

Are Varicose Veins Dangerous or Harmful?

Varicose veins are a common health problem that affects more than half of the population[1]. They’re predominantly a cosmetic issue, but symptoms of varicose veins can include pain, swelling, and discomfort for some people. So, are uncomfortable or itchy varicose veins dangerous? While not inherently dangerous, varicose veins can lead to complications like blood clots, […]

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An older woman holding her swollen ankle

Varicose Veins Ankle Swelling: Causes and Treatment

After spending some time on your feet, you look down and notice your ankles feel uncomfortable and appear significantly bigger than they did this morning. What’s going on?  If you have varicose veins anywhere on your legs, this can be a common cause of ankle vein swelling. What are the underlying reasons for varicose vein […]

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A woman holding her cramping leg due to varicose veins

Can Varicose Veins Cause Leg Cramps?

Varicose veins come with a slew of symptoms that can be mildly annoying or downright disruptive to everyday life. Many people with vein disease complain of discomfort in their lower limbs, but do varicose veins cause leg cramps? Let’s explore the relationship between varicose veins and leg cramps and, most importantly, what you can do […]

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How Much Does Vein Treatment Cost?

At Empire Vein & Vascular Specialists, we understand that your needs and goals for treating your varicose or spider veins are as individual as you are. We create individualized treatment plans by matching your desires for how you want to look and feel with the most effective treatments for your individual needs. The cost of […]

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What is Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a common, progressive condition in older adults in which blood flow in the arteries of the legs becomes increasingly restricted. If left undiagnosed and untreated, PAD can lead to serious complications may range from cramping and pain in the legs when walking to non-healing wounds and even amputation. In […]

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What You Need To Know About Vein Valves

What are Vein Valves? Interspersed throughout your veins are small crescent-shaped flaps of tissue, known as valves, that help prevent a backflow of blood. These valves project from the innermost layer of the vein wall to the center of the vein and are angled towards the heart in the direction of venous blood flow. Lacking […]

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Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease: Causes and Treatments

Aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD) refers to the blockage of the aorta or the iliac arteries. The aorta divides into branches called around the level of the navel to supply blood to the legs and the pelvic organs. This blockage typically occurs due to a buildup of plaque within the walls of the blood vessels. Patients […]

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Aortic Dissection: Causes And Treatments

Aortic dissection occurs when the blood enters the arterial wall between the inner and middle layers of the aorta. This condition may occur when the inner layer of the aorta tears, allowing blood to flow from the main area of the artery into the wall. This risk is that the aortic dissection could channel blood […]

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What a Leg Ultrasound Can Reveal About Your Varicose Veins

Ultrasound is one of the gold standard methods for evaluating varicose veins. An ultrasound study produces a comprehensive map of the large and small veins, branching veins, and interconnecting veins of your legs. Ultrasound is often performed as a first step in evaluating varicose veins and also provides valuable follow-up information to monitor the healing […]

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